Rick Gazipura

DUI and DWI Attorney at Scotts Valley, CA

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Awesome Attorney

Rick knows his trade!

It was great working with a professional like Rick. He knew how to best work the court, the DA's office, and the DMV to our advantage. I got into a little bit of a situation at a local bar with me facing "Simple Battery," and a "DUI." I decided to retain Rick after our consultation. After reviewing all of the evidence (video footage from the bar and the police bodycam footage), Rick quickly formulated a plan that resulted in the DA not wanting to take this to trial and work out a plea agreement. As part of that agreement the "Simple Battery" was dropped along with the "DUI." Rick was also able to get me a "not guilty finding" on the DUI, so that my drivers license would not be suspended or taken away by the DMV. I didn't have to pay any fines. I didn't have to go to any DUI classes. I didn't have to do any community service. Rick always appeared in court on my behalf, I never had to appear once. He took care of everything. It was all remote/hands off from my perspective. We spoke over the phone and over email. Money well spent!! Rick made this whole thing very easy! Best possible outcome! Thank you Rick!

About Rick

Learn Rick’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

DUI and DWI

80%

14 years
Expungement

20%

14 years

A DUI IS SERIOUS BUSINESS, BUT IT DOESN'T HAVE TO DEFINE YOUR LIFE.

I practice DUI Defense in Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Santa Clara Counties.

I have worked as a public defender in several parts of California, and have handled thousands of misdemeanor and felony cases. Today, my office focuses on all aspects of DUI Defense, including pretrial motions, jury trials, and DMV proceedings

I’m proud to be a native of Santa Cruz and serving my community in the legal field since 2008.

Licensed for 14 years

State CA

Status Active

Acquired 2008

Updated 12/04/2022

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Rick

The Law Office of Rick Gazipura

(831) 704-1598 Office

4665 Scotts Valley Dr

Scotts Valley, CA, 95066-4227

duisantacruz.org/

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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

25 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

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1 Star

Posted by Kyle | February 23, 2023

Awesome Attorney

I was looking at some jail time for a 9 year old warrant that had to do with a DUI. I called Rick all the way from Alaska. He did so much for me before I even got back to California. Not only that, he helped me with everything I needed to do on my end. In the end we went to court only 2 times and we got everything terminated and I was able to get back to normal life.

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Posted by Rob | February 20, 2023

Rick knows his trade!

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Posted by Gary | February 18, 2023

Hire Rick!!

First time Dui (and last). If you are looking for attorneys to help you out and are reading reviews....stop. Just hire Rick. He handled all of my DMV appearances and court dates. He was able to reduce my fine in half. Like he told me "let me do the worrying". Kept me informed on everything. He made what is a terrible thing to go through a very easy process. The best.

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Posted by Kenny | September 26, 2022

Very professional and thorough

Rick helped me go through the process of handling very complex court system. He was available when I needed his guidance and his directions were very specific and easy to understand. Rick was very knowledgeable and it was eye opening to see how tedious and costly DUI can be.

Posted by anonymous | August 27, 2022

Best legal decision I’ve made

I hired Rick for my case in the beginning of 2020 before the pandemic and we settled this July 2022. I was looking at a felony charge and a year of time to serve due to another charge caught in April. Through his diligent work going the extra mile to build my case and the connections he’s made over the years, Rick was able to make a deal where I received no time, the most minimal fine and probation and no classes, and I never lost my license due to this case through out the entire process. I would definitely recommend Rick to anyone in my situation and will be going back to him for legal work in the future such as expungements when the option is available :) Thanks again Rick!

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Posted by Christopher | August 12, 2022

Fantastic attorney, stop your search here

Rick was fantastic from start to finish - he explains the entire process, your options, the pros/cons of these options and will try the path less traveled if necessary. A very important factor in DUI cases: Rick knows the players. He's been around for awhile and thus he has excellent connections with the judges and the DA's who are working the case. These connections plus his reputation for going the distance took my case from a bad situation to better saving me money, time, and freedom. If you're looking for help because you find yourself in unfortunate circumstances, Rick will help you navigate the process with professionalism, candor, and intelligence. Thank you Rick for all of your help!

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Posted by anonymous | July 7, 2022

Made this Easy and Manageable

Rick made this whole process easy, manageable, and speedy. He was attentive, always quick to respond or answer any questions I had, and very easy to communicate with. From the initial consultation, through to the end of my court proceedings, what I thought was going to be the most life-altering experience of my life became a process that he walked me through, one step at a time. I would highly recommend Rick as your representation for your DUI case, especially in Santa Cruz County.

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Posted by anonymous | March 16, 2022

Excellent Lawyer

It has been a pleasure working with Rick from the initial inquiry to the end he was always available to answer questions. His patience and calm demeanor helped me get through a stressful situation. He truly cares and would do anything possible to help his clients. I highly recommend him!

Posted by anonymous | March 15, 2022

Great & reliable attorney!

I'm very glad I had Rick represent me. He was able to reduce my DUI charge to a wet reckless. He was also very professional and timely in responding and guided me through the entire process.

Posted by Maria Ochoa | July 27, 2021

Excellent Service

That night I got pulled over for a DUI, I had no idea my life would forever change. I was clueless on what to do, and I started searching for some of the best attorneys around Santa Cruz Area. Rick was definitely one of them. I cannot thank him enough for all his patience and the effort he put on my case. My case was a little more complicated than it would seem, but Rick was always very honest and always assure me he’d do what we he could to ease my situation. I ended up getting just a Wet Reckless & even given my financial situation he was able to assist me. If anybody is truly looking for an attorney that would put 100% and understand your situation, Rick would definitely be the person you should keep in your contacts forever. I definitely will & would 100% recommend his services to others. Never did I ever doubt his practice because he was sincere in every aspect.

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Posted by Alex | July 13, 2021

A league of his own!

Rick is hands down the best. Knowledgeable, friendly, professional, affordable, flexible. Rick is one of those rare attorney’s that is the definition of what one is supposed to be. He will let you know all the angles of what is possible with your case, and is straight forward with you about it. Rick always made time for me from the first time I met with him and even squeezed in our first meeting on short notice and was patient with me asking tons of questions. Rick also not only is professional, but affordable and just nice. He gave me a better deal than I could have ever asked for and even with such a value he took his time with me. Never made me feel rushed or like time was ticking while talking to him, or something else more important. Also, speedy replies and updates. The only advice I have to give is to not second guess hiring Rick because he goes above and beyond. Truly in a league of his own.

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Posted by Jesse | June 23, 2021

Smart, friendly, and reliable. Highly recommended!

Excellent attorney! Intelligent, articulate, thorough, and knows all the intricacies of the legal system. I consulted with him and he was incredibly knowledgeable and detailed, as well as friendly and compassionate. He knew exactly how my court case would proceed, and had me completely prepared for my appearance. I would gladly hire him if I got into legal trouble again. Rick Gazipura is highly recommended if you need an attorney!

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Posted by Brendan | May 9, 2021

Excellent Advice

Rick was amazing at handling my case. He was able to assist me to hire a private investigator and kept an eye on the case while it was pending. Although the case was not filed, he is sealing the case, for no extra charge. Highly recommended.

Posted by David | September 18, 2018

5/5 Rick Gazipura DUI

Rick has been absolutely amazing. When I got a DUI I had no idea what to do. I found Rick on yelp and saw his 5 star rating so I decided he would be a good option, I was not disappointed. Rick is well versed in this matter and was able to walk me through the process giving me multiple options to pursue. In the end he was able to save me money and stress. His response times via phone, txt, or email are prompt, and with his calm demeanor, every conversation I felt reassured. If you have a DUI don't hesitate, he can help you. -David

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Posted by Joey Smith | September 18, 2018

Great Attorney!

I would highly recommend using Rick Gazipura's legal services. Over the last six months he has represented me on a DUI case. From the start Rick was attentive to every aspect of my case and any outside issues. He worked diligently to get the best outcome possible, resulting in some dropped charges, DUI reduced to a wet and wreckless and minimal fines. I'm extremely pleased with the results Rick was able to produce. Nothing I can say will adequately express how highly I recommend his services. He's an exceptional attorney and a great man.

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Posted by anonymous | March 14, 2018

Responsive & Helpful

Rick was responsive and helpful throughout my entire process. He answered all of my questions thoroughly and made sure I took every step necessary to submit the best case possible. He met all of my expectations and more, consistently followed up with me, and informed me of updates quickly. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a great attorney in the area.

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Posted by Dg | February 13, 2018

Professonial and very knowledgeable of the criminal justice systems

Without going into the details of my case. Rick had my charges reduced and ultimately dismissed. Rick is a great attorney that knows how to navigate through judicial system

Posted by anonymous | November 21, 2017

Thorough and efficient

I hired Rick for a DUI expungement motion. After speaking with a few other attorneys, I decided on Rick because he was affordable and outlined a thorough game plan during the phone consultation. I was on a deadline, and Rick worked quickly to get things done as fast as possible. We were able to efficiently collaborate on documents through google drive. During the hearing of the motion, the judge was complimentary on the thoroughness of the paperwork and granted it without question. I plan on keeping his contact information handy in case I need his services again.

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Posted by anonymous | November 4, 2017

Excellant Lawyer

I hired Rick to defend my son in a drug case. He had come highly recommended from another lawyer for the successful work he had done in the public defenders office. Rick coordinated with my son directly without my intervention. His professionalism and determination resulted in a successful defense which resulted in all charges being dropped. I don't think there would be too many lawyers who would have pursued this approach which took over the course of much of the year. I trust in Rick's judgement and would highly recommend him in any case to vigorously pursue the best defense possible.

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Posted by James | October 13, 2017

My Only Jury Trial

The case must have gone on for 10 days. It was the first time in my life I had a full-blown jury trial. Rick did his homework every night. He came up with angles I couldn't even imagine to get the case dismissed. I had never seen or known an attorney to have this much tenacity. When he advised me to refrain from testifying at all, it was a hard decision for me. I took Rick's advice and the jury deliberated just 10 minutes. NOT GUILTY on both charges!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Founder
Law Office of Rick Gazipura
2017 - Present

Attorney at Law
Law Offfice of Biggam, Christensen, and Minsloff
2013 - 2017

Attorney
Tulare County Public Defender
2012 - 2013

Attorney
Inyo County Public Defender
2009 - 2012

View all work experience

Education

Santa Clara University School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2008

University of California - Berkeley
Bachelor's degree
2001

Legal Cases

Possession of Drugs for Sale
Case dismissed

DUI Refusal
Driver's License suspension set aside

Prescription Drug DUI
Case dismissed

View all legal cases

Associations

Santa Cruz County Bar Association
Board of Directors
2020 - Present

California DUI Lawyers Association
Member
2017 - Present

California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
Member
2017 - Present

Santa Cruz County Bar Association
Member
2013 - Present

California Public Defenders Association
Member
2009 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Trial Practice Institute Graduate
National Criminal Defense College
2015

Exemplary Service Award
Inyo County
2012

Witkins Award for Academic Achievement--Trial Advocacy class
Santa Clara University School of Law
2008

Publications

Santa Cruz County Bar Association Bar Briefs
The 1918 Influenza Epidemic, Parallels, and the case of Ziang Sung Wan
2020

Speaking Engagements

Transition Age Youth Program
Know your Rights when interacting with Law Enforcement
2016

Attorney endorsements

Received (12)

Given (14)

Endorse Rick

John Thornton

DUI and DWI Attorney | Feb 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Rick is bright, motivated, and cares about his clients."

Stephen Laberge

Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Rick is an excellent attorney, a tireless advocate, and a warm and genuine person. I highly recommend him as an attorney for both civil and criminal issues."

Patrick Coughlin

DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 14
Relationship: Co-worker

"Rick is a compassionate, effective, and thorough in all matters, from misdemeanors to serious cases. I have seen him get great results and he is a zealous advocate. Hire him."

Jamyrson Pittori

Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 02
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have worked with Rick on numerous criminal cases. He is a dedicated and compassionate advocate. He works hard to achieve positive outcomes for his clients. Rick is greatly respected by judges and within the legal community."

Bryan Hackett

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Rick for years and consider him a fine attorney. Between his knowledge of criminal law and procedures, plus his familiarity with the local system, the DA's and judges, he is an excellent resource for anyone in need of a quality legal defense."

Lauren Cox

Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I worked alongside Rick at the Public Defenders Office in Tulare County, and he is a top-notch attorney. He works tirelessly for his clients, knows the law, and is a fearsome advocate. He routinely got cases dismissed due to his brilliant motion work. Rick is tough and doesn't back down, and he is highly respected by judges and colleagues alike. I would recommend Rick to anyone facing a criminal charge; you will be in excellent hands."

Mark Johnson

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I know Rick from when we both worked as public defenders. He established a great reputation as a staunch advocate and great negotiator. Years after he left his work as a public defender, he was always mentioned favorably. He's a great choice for a defense attorney."

Victoria Campbell

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He exemplifies the best qualities in the profession. He is smart, caring, and skilled. You can't go wrong by hiring him."

Emily Koehler

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Rick is a zealous advocate for ALL of his clients. He goes above and beyond preparing his cases and is always up to date with changes in the law. Rick is a great asset to the Criminal Defense bar!"

Alyssa Thompson

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Rick is a fantastic choice. I've worked alongside him in the past and would trust him to help me, if I were in trouble. His passion for his clients shows through in how hard he works to do the best work he can for each and every person."

Leila Sayar

Criminal defense Attorney | May 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Rick is a rare lawyer, who is thoughtful, methodical and quietly assertive. He cares about his clients and provides them with quality representation. He is bright and tough."

Bridgid-Leigh Brady

DUI and DWI Attorney | May 26
Relationship: Co-worker

"I worked with Rick a few years ago. He is very skilled and thorough, and always does his best for his clients!"

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John Thornton

DUI and DWI